NanoString nCounter

What is the NanoString nCounter?

The NanoString nCounter can analyze up to 800 gene expressions at once using direct detection technology. With a simple workflow that needs just 30-60 minutes of bench work to prepare samples, the NanoString nCounter can produce 10,000 data points for 12 samples in less than 24 hours.

How it works

The nCounter chemistry works by binding RNA with target-specific probe sets consisting of 1 capture probe and 1 reporter probe. The capture probe will complement the sequence of the RNA strand of interest, allowing for specific binding. The reporter probe carries a chemical barcode with a unique arrangement of 6 fluorescent molecules. The nCounter can detach this barcode to accurately count the target RNA in the sample. Using various arrangements of fluorescent molecules, the system can analyze up to 800 distinct RNA targets in a single sample. The NanoString nCounter will then analyze, break down, and generate a data table from the information collected in these samples.

Compatibility

The NanoString nCounter works with various sample types, including, but not limited to, RNA, fresh frozen samples, blood, plasma, serum, cell lysate, and even decades-old FFPE tissues. To use the NanoString nCounter, labs need to check their samples' quality, consult with Nanostring specialists, and make sure they are at the right concentrations for their specific sample type (example: fresh frozen samples should have a concentration of 20ng/µL.)

Responsibilities and policies

Premade panels must be ordered from NanoString consisting of 770-780 genes. These standard panels may be customized by working with NanoString’s bioinformatics team. Individual labs wishing to utilize NanoString services are required to purchase their own panels and NanoString reagent kits.

Services available for the NanoString nCounter include assisted acquisition and data production. Flow Core personnel will perform hybridization and miRNA preparation steps utilizing NanoString kits ordered by individual labs. Flow Core personnel will also perform the actual NanoString run and data production.

Following experimentation, all data will be exported to the thumb drive provided with the NanoString kit. Data will not be stored for long-term on the NanoString instrument. The Flow Core is not responsible for maintaining experimental data after the thumb drive has been returned to individual laboratory personnel.